Library prepares to unveil updated catalog

Library prepares to unveil updated catalog

COLUMBUS—On Monday, Jan. 11, Columbus Metropolitan Library (CML) will unveil an updated catalog on its website, columbuslibrary.org. These enhancements are intended to improve the customer experience.

The changes will enable customers to:

Find relevant content more easily with an updated search tool

Place a hold with just one click

Browse and reserve eBook and eAudiobook titles directly in the catalog (customers currently have to be redirected to a third-party site)

Manage all holds and checkouts on one screen – including eBooks

The changes to the catalog will require library customers to create a username and password in order to access their account and make reserves. Once they do this, they will be able to once more log in using their library card and PIN numbers.

Additionally, any “My Lists” of titles created by customers within the current catalog version will not carry over into the enhanced version, so customers are encouraged to print any previously created lists they want to save before Jan. 11. New lists can be created – and shared – starting Jan. 11 in the updated catalog.

Columbus Metropolitan Library has served the people of Franklin County, Ohio since 1873. With its Main Library and 22 branches, CML is well known for signature services and programs like Homework Help Centers, Reading Buddies, Summer Reading Club and Ready for Kindergarten. The library’s Strategic Plan supports the vision of “a thriving community where wisdom prevails,” which positions CML to respond to areas of urgent need: kids unprepared for kindergarten, third grade reading proficiency, high school graduation, college readiness and employment resources.

CML was named a 2011 National Medal Winner by the Institute for Museum and Library Services for work in community service, the highest honor for libraries and museums. Columbus Metropolitan Library has been rated a 5-Star Library by Library Journal for seven of the eight years the magazine has published its industry ratings.